Eglise Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois (Church of St Germanus of Auxerre), Paris

Situated in the heart of Paris, near the banks of the Seine and in close proximity to the Louvre, this historic church, known as Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois, is often referred to as the Church of the Louvre. Founded in the 7th century, it has undergone multiple reconstructions throughout the centuries, showcasing a blend of architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance.

The west front of the church features a remarkable Flamboyant Gothic porch initiated in 1435, which stands as the sole surviving example of this architectural style in Paris. Originally, the porch served as the meeting place for the Canons of the cathedral, who held their ecclesiastical court there. It also functioned as a classroom where students received instruction in catechism. Above the rose window, there is a balustrade encircling the entire church, created by Jean Gaussel between 1435 and 1439.

Inside the church, there are various treasures of note. These include a 15th-century wooden statue of Saint Germain, a stone-carved Saint Vincent from the same period, a Flemish wooden altarpiece, and the famous churchwarden's pew made in 1683 by François Le Mercier. Despite being subjected to looting during the French Revolution, the church still preserves splendid stained glass windows. Additionally, a north tower was added in 1860, positioned across from the 1st arrondissement hall, constructed in 1859.